Many
Bible schools, churches, preachers, evangelists, ministries, and missionaries
seem to believe that the church age we are currently living in is the best ever.
The Gospel is going out to the world through television, regular and shortwave
radio, missionaries, and by other means. The Gospel has been published in most
languages of the world. Yet, the Bible proclaims clearly that this is the worst
church there has ever been. But then Godís Word also tells us that the wretched,
pitiful, poor, blind, and naked church of today does not know these things.
In other words, the churches of today believe they are just the opposite of
their true condition. They believe they are the best, yet are in reality the
worst. Some churches and ministries are sometimes proclaiming they have won
tens of thousands, or even millions of people to Christ. However, when the people
they claim to have won are examined by their fruits, there is no evidence that
the person truly repented. There is no evidence that Jesus is their Lord and
Saviour. There is no evidence they are obeying Godís Word or are following the
Jesus of the Bible. Both their conversation and actions are centered on this
world, not on Jesus and the world to come.For the most part, the
salvation message of this generation is to simply say a prayer. Once that prayer
is said, then the person is eternally saved no matter what they may or may not
do. The message of true repentance, true trust in Jesus Christ, forsaking everything,
persecutions, Godís wrath, hell and the lake of fire, sin, the Revelation and
Daniel, Bible prophecy, and good sound Bible doctrine is seldom heard in todayís
churches. Most of todayís churches are storytelling, fun- filled, prosperity-seeking
institutions that hear of Godís love, but despise and get angry when biblical
correction comes forth. It is a church age that claims that they know God, but
in both fruits and works, they deny Him. The lukewarm, Laodicean church is the
one that will be spit out. It is the church that will be left behind when the
Rapture comes. As very few were saved in the days of Noah, in like manner, very
few are truly saved today. When the Rapture comes, only a few will be taken.Regarding America and the more
developed countries, it is a church age where men may sit in church on Sunday
and then go home and click on the internet searching for pornography. It is
a church age in which people claim they are saved, but have a cigarette or drugs
in one hand and a beer in another. They are full of anger, they hate people,
and seldom read their Bibles or pray. They are a people that claim to be Christian,
but have no understanding of Godís truth. They do not or cannot examine themselves
truthfully by Godís Word to see if they are truly in the faith-ref 2 Cor 13:5.The question needs to be askedóare
you one of them?

Laodicea means "human
rights" or "the rights of the people." Thus, this was a church
governed by the will of the people, rather than the will of God.Laodicea was located on a trade
route, about forty miles southeast of Philadelphia in the country known, today,
as Turkey. Supposedly, it was named after Laodice, the wife of the Seleucid
monarch, Antiochus II. It was a large, fortified city, constructed during the
middle of the third century B.C. Laodicea produced a fine black wool from the
local sheep. It boasted a medical school, which produced a well-known eye medicine,
called "Phrygian powder." (Laodicea was the capital of Phrygia.) Water
was brought in by a special, approximately six mile long aqueduct system from
nearby cities. Sunlight heated the water to lukewarm. The city was reportedly
destroyed by an earthquake, about 34 years prior to John writing this letter
but was rebuilt. It had become a Christian city. Paul was very concerned over
this church; as it is written, Col 2:1-FOR I WOULD THAT YE KNEW WHAT GREAT CONFLICT
I HAVEÖFOR THEM AT LAODICEA. It may be said that Paul was very concerned about
their spiritual condition.The city was later destroyed
by the Moslems, during the Middle Ages, and abandoned; its desolate ruins remain
today. These ruins apparently reveal a wealthy financial and commercial center
with temples and theaters. Luxury and pride would seem to go hand in hand with
such things.

2-SUMMARY
OF THE LAODICEAN CHURCH

There are eleven bad things and no good things mentioned of the Laodicean church
in Rev 3:14-22. It seems this church has forgotten that Jesus is the ultimate
Authority, He is true, and He is the true Judge. They have forgotten that He
is faithful, He is God Almighty, and He created all things.It is the most heavily rebuked
and deceived church in the history of the church age; however, it sees itself
as "the best." It is the only church of the seven in which the entire
church will be spit out (rejected).This church is described as
lukewarm, indifferent, not concerned with right and wrong, or with good and
evil. They take a neutral position: one of "live and let live; donít rock
the boat; and donít cause waves." They are trying to serve two mastersóGod
and self (or the world). They are positive they are right. At best, their understanding
of Godís Word, obedience, sin, repentance, and the fruits of the Spirit, is
only lukewarm.It is the worst of all the
seven churches, yet the most confident. They claim they are rich, increased
with goods, and have need of nothing; however, God judges them to be wretched,
which is the result of having no faith or faith like a wave. It comes from a
lack of truth, sound doctrine, and understanding. They are miserable,
tossed about with all kinds of incorrect doctrines, which come in like the wind
from every direction. They are poor in wisdom, in knowledge, in faith,
and in the Word of God. They are not zealous for the truth, but are blind
to their true condition and to Satanís schemes. They think their condition is
just the opposite of what it really is. They gather around themselves teachers
that say what their selfishness, emotions, and deceived hearts want to hear.
They are shamefully naked. They do not have on the white garments of
righteousness, but are clothed with the black wool of deceit, which is no clothing
at all. This church is shown to be naked, but they do not know these things.
They are positive they are saved, but are positively wrong. THE FOOL RAGETH,
AND IS CONFIDENT-Pv 14:16. One of the most appalling aspects of this church
is, they are totally ignorant of all these things. They are unaware of their
true spiritual condition. They are, sometimes, willingly ignorant. They are
sometimes so deceived and blind that they do not even recognize that the
letter to the church of the Laodiceans is actually a letter to them.
As a result, they do not seek to change or repent. It may be said, these are
people that go to church, sing spiritual songs, pray to God, and then Monday
through Saturday live as if Jesus does not exist. They behave as if they will
never have to face the judgment.Laodiceans are told to buy
of Jesus gold that is refined by the fire. They are told to anoint their eyes
with ointment, so they can see their true spiritual condition as God sees it.
The Lord appears to be admonishing them to be zealous for the things of Godówisdom,
knowledge, and truthóand to hate every evil way. He is telling them to repent.Jesus is shown outside the
door of this church, not inside. He is depicted as knocking on the door of the
church and on the individualís heart, but the Laodiceans do not want to let
Him in. They do not want to be shown they are wrong and will perish. They do
not want to see their true blind and wretched condition. They do not want correction
or truth. Often, ministers, churches, and ministries focus more on getting money
and more people, rather than on humbleness, brokenness, and good sound doctrine.This is a description of the
last churchóthe worst of all, in which the entire church is described as being
spit out (or perishing). This is a description of the most confident church
of them all, yet it is the most deceived church that has ever existed; however,
they do not know or understand it. This is the description of todayís
church. The verses on the Laodicean church are in perfect harmony with
many other verses that tell how the times would be, leading up to the Tribulation.We would all do well to heed
the words of Jesus: HE THAT HATH AN EAR, LET HIM HEAR WHAT THE SPIRIT SAITH
UNTO THE CHURCHES-Rev 3:22.

3-TODAYíS
CHURCH

This is the church age from which the Antichrist will emerge. It is the church
age Paul talked about that would not endure sound doctrine, but would gather
around them teachers that would say what their ITCHING EARS wanted and desired
to hear-ref 2 Tim 4:3. Jesus was asked about the sign of His coming. The first
thing He said was, TAKE HEED THAT NO MAN DECEIVE YOU-Mt 24:4; ref Mk 13:5; Lk
21:8. Before Jesus warned about wars and rumors of wars; before He related about
famines, earthquakes, and diseases; before He told about the Gospel being published
among all nations, He warned about the age of religious deception that would
come. This is that church age. In the history of the seven churches, there has
never been a church age so filled with deceptive doctrines and ideas, yet so
totally ignorant of its true condition. In the church of Sardis (the "dead"
church), there were a FEW NAMES that had not defiled their garments-ref Rev
3:4. However, in the Laodicean church age, there does not appear to be even
a "few" that are not blind and naked.This is very much in harmony
with the Scriptures relating to the coming of the Lord being as in the days
of Noah, wherein FEW souls were saved. Despite the overwhelming witness of Godís
Word, regarding this church, they are in total ignorance of the truth, often
preaching just the opposite.Todayís church
is full of deception; it will perish. However, there are well-known Bible teachers
who think that more than fifty percent of Americans are born-again.It is a church where people
are entertained and made to feel good, instead of falling upon their knees in
godly sorrow for sin. It is a church age for laughing rather than for crying.
It is a church age of saying a sinnerís prayer and believing a person is saved,
even though afterward there is absolutely no evidence of repentance, the fruits
of the Spirit, doing the will of God, or the fruits of the works of God. In
some cases, the preachers know these things, but will not tell their congregations
the truth. Some are afraid that people might leave their church and go elsewhere.
They love the praise of men more than the praise of God. Having lots of unsaved
or lukewarm people means more to them than having a few hot, spiritual people.It is a church that finds time
to do all manner of things, but does not find time to humbly dwell in and study
Godís Word as if their life depended on it.It is the church age when thousands
of Christian preachers may preside daily over funerals declaring that the deceased
person is now in heavenówhen, in reality, he is screaming, tormented in the
flames of hell. When have you ever heard a preacher say at a funeral that the
deceased person went to hell? The Bible clearly shows that only a few are truly
saved by the grace of God; however, if one would listen to the preachers at
funerals, it would seem that everyone goes to heaven.The preaching,
in many of todayís churches, consists of foolishness, jokes, storytelling,
and teaching what pleases people, rather than Godís pure Word. They do not usually
preach that THE THOUGHT OF FOOLISHNESS IS SIN-Pv 24:9. Some of Americaís best
comedians are behind the pulpits. Should a preacher, who gets the congregation
laughing with jokes, then expect people to fall on their faces before God with
conviction for sin and with tears of repentance? Is this the way Jesus preached?
Did Jesus try to comfort those that came to hear Him with jokes, foolishness,
or other antics to cause them to laugh?The preaching, in many of todayís
churches, consists of reading a few Bible verses; then the preacher talks about
himself, his family, and other incidents that relate to the verses. The people
learn very little about Jesus. They learn very little of the WORD OF GOD and
of comparing the Word with the Word. On the other hand, they learn a great deal
about the preacher, his children, his wife, his friends, things he has done,
and so on. What a blind church age, when we teach what other people and other
books say, but we ignore what God says in His Word! The milk of the Word is
diluted with lots of water. They preach watered-down milk. A baby that receives
only one part of milk, mixed with ten parts of water, will eventually die. The
born-again Christian needs and desires the PURE SPIRITUAL MILK-1 Pe 2:2 NIV,
that is not watered-down with other things. It is not man, but the Holy Spirit
that opens a personís heart to understand. So few seem to realize
this. It is a church age where Godís Word is proclaiming, PREACH THE WORD-2
Tim 4:2. Jesus (the Word) is outside the church knocking, yet who has ears to
hear?What a blind church age it
is! Jesus is about to return; many biblical signs testify to this fact. Nevertheless,
many churches will not teach Bible prophecy. Even though much of the Bible pertains
to prophecy, it is often ignored. Many churches teach on love, but exhibit no
love toward other born-again people outside of their own local church. Many
churches think they can see how blind other churches are, but fail to see how
blind they themselves are.Many Bible schools and churches
teach this way; afterward, they wipe their mouth and say, "I have done
no wrong." In their blindness, they fulfill the Laodicean prophecies.It is very common, in America,
to find church members that say they follow Christ, but are involved in every
sort of sin imaginable. Many of these same people hold positions of authority.
They may oversee the churchís business affairs, including the hiring and dismissing
of pastors, yet they, themselves, are spiritually dead and ignorant of Godís
Word. The church has been infected with leaven (false doctrine), which has grown
like a cancer, reaching to the very core. The entire church is infected and
sick, but does not know it.In todayís church,
some missionaries think that many in Africa shall be raptured; it is estimated
that eighty percent of the African couples that are living together
are not even married, when viewed in light of Godís Word. Some just move in
together. Others may pay part of a dowry, or say they will pay it, and then
set up housekeeping and have children. They live in fornication, yet believe
they are married. (Marriage customs vary somewhat from nation to nation, or
from tribe to tribe.) Many of these are professing Christian preachers. Many
other "so-called" Christian preachers have several wives. In addition,
many of the churches are divided against each other; bickering has led to further
splits and even hatred.In India, the
woman or parents of the woman may pay for her husband, which is very contrary
to the Bible. This practice instills a concept completely foreign to Godís Word.
It was Jesus Who gave His life for His bride. We love Him, because He first
loved us. He gave His life for us. Often in India, when payment is not made,
the husband may beat or kill his wife. Many Christian pastors in India and Africa
are afraid to take a stand for what is right in the eyes of Godís
Word, as they would be going against the traditions of the people. By doing
this, they might suffer further persecutions. Many American missionaries that
go to these places are either ignorant of these things, or they choose to ignore
them. In addition, some American missionaries bring false doctrines
and deceptions of the Laodicean age with them to the mission field and further
deceive the people. It is wrong for Christians to partake of traditions that
oppose the Word of God. It is also wrong for Christian pastors to permit these
practices among the flock of which they have the oversight. To do so is sin
and only serves to perpetuate the "leaven."Murder, stealing, drugs, fornication,
adultery, homosexuality, abortions, greed, materialism, swearing, hatred, and
every manner of sin conceivable exists in America. Nevertheless, many of the
unrepentant people that do these things attend church on Sunday as if they have
done no wrong. At church, however, they seldom hear preaching against sin; they
seldom hear the word "repent."In many of the churches throughout
the world, people sing, and sing, and sing, but know little of
what Godís Word has to say. They know the words to many songs, but know little
about Bible doctrine. It is very common, in some countries, to find pastors
that may pray for hours a day, but spend only a few minutes reading Godís Word.
They pray to a God they know very little about. Around the world, the church
is in great blindness and is not aware of it. This is part of what Jesus prophesied
would happen; it has come to pass. As birth pangs of a woman, it will continue
to get worse until, finally, the trumpet sounds and Jesus calls those few faithful,
fruit-bearing Christians home. The Laodicean Christians of this generation will
be rejected (spit out) and left behind: most will continually refuse to believe
this until it is too late.The truth of much
of Godís Word (Jesus) has been abandoned and rejected by this church age. As
Jesus is seen standing outside of His church knocking on the door, so the Laodiceans
will be left out of heaven, except they repent. Can you clearly see these things?
Very few can. Consider EPAPHRAS...A SERVANT OF CHRIST...HE HATH A GREAT ZEAL
FOR YOU, AND THEM THAT ARE IN LAODICEA-Col 4:12,13.

4-SPIRITUAL
WARFARE

As we carefully study the seven churches, we note that Satan has tried bringing
great persecutions in the past; these did not destroy the church.Satan has tried using less
persecutions and more false doctrine mixed with the truth; this worked more
effectively.Satan is using prosperity,
selfishness, false doctrine, and lukewarm preaching mixed with the truth; this
has almost destroyed the church. This is the Laodicean church.It needs to be repeated that
there is not one good thing mentioned about the Laodicean church from the words
of Jesus.

Information
on the Laodicean church (Rev 3:14-22):

A lukewarm church
that will be spit out

The approximate period
represented is from 1948 to the Rapture (many others believe the time is
from 1917 to the Rapture)

Three descriptions
of Jesus

No good things

Eleven bad things

One warning

Four items of advice
on what to do and why

Six reasons to follow
Godís advice

Two items of what
Jesus is doing

Two "ifs"

Three promises

One reward

3:14.
AND UNTO THE ANGEL OF THE CHURCH OF THE LAODICEANS WRITE. Once
again, John is told to write.THESE THINGS SAITH
(or are the words of). Next the subject turns to Jesus. The verse addresses
Him as,

5-DESCRIPTIONS
OF JESUS

1. THE AMEN. 2. THE FAITHFUL AND TRUE
WITNESS.3. THE BEGINNING OF THE
CREATION OF GOD.As with the other six churches,
the descriptions of Jesus tell something about this particular church age. These
descriptions often convey a message to the church of things that may be lacking
or have been forgotten. The "AMEN" means, "so be it, it is true."
This is reminding the church that Jesus is sovereign, He is true, He is everything.
Jesus is the final Word, the true Judge, and the ultimate Authority. He is God
Almighty. This "truth" has been largely rejected in the Laodicean
church age.Jesus is the "FAITHFUL
AND TRUE WITNESS." LET GOD BE TRUE, BUT EVERY MAN A LIAR-Ro 3:4. The church
is being reminded that Jesus is faithful. Jesus is the true Witness. His Word
is true. The church of the Laodiceans have forgotten this. Jesus presents Himself
in this manner, as what He is about to say will conflict with the opinions that
they have of themselves. Jesus is showing that what He will say is true, and
what they say and think is wrong. This "truth" has also been largely
rejected by the Laodicean church age.The church is being reminded
that Jesus is the "BEGINNING OF THE CREATION OF GOD"-Rev 3:14. Some
forget the words, FOR BY HIM WERE ALL THINGS CREATED-Col 1:16;
GOD, WHO CREATED ALL THINGS BY JESUS CHRIST-Eph 3:9. Satanís deceptive theory
of evolution is now widely accepted as truth, and the truth that God created
all things has been laid aside, rejected by much of the Laodicean church age.

3:15.
This verse begins with a series of words that are repeated in each of the churchesóI
KNOW THYWORKS (or deeds). This is addressed to the church, in general,
as well as the individual. God knows the works of His people, things done both
in the open and in secret. If this would be counted as a good point, then one
good point would be listed for this church; however, the description of the
works of this church are all unacceptable. Jesus is showing, clearly, no good
or acceptable works come forth from this church.

6-GOOD
THINGS

None.

7-BAD
THINGS

1. THAT THOU ART NEITHERCOLD NOR HOT. Then Jesus makes a comment,I WOULD THOU WERT COLD OR
HOT (I wish you were either one or the
other!-NIV). If a person is cold, he can sometimes be reached for Jesus. On
the other hand, Jesus would prefer that His servants were "hot."

3:16.2. SO THEN BECAUSE THOU
ART LUKEWARM, AND NEITHER COLD NOR HOT. Consider the nature of something
lukewarm. A cup of cold water can be very satisfying-ref Mt 10:42. A cup of
hot tea or some other beverage can also be very satisfying and taste delicious.
But a cup of lukewarm water or lukewarm tea can be very unappealing; it may
taste so bad, a person may want to spit it out. This describes the Laodicean
church age.It was the cold, spiritual
atmosphere of the church in England that motivated John Wesley to begin his
own meetings. It was the coldness of the Methodist Church that caused William
Booth to become "on fire" for the Lord. God wants His people to be
"hot" in knowledge and in zeal for Him. However, if this is not the
case, then He would prefer them to be cold. When one is cold, it is clear-cut;
this distinction can eventually lead some to want to be hot. However, the lukewarm
often do not recognize their condition or seek to change as the cold do. They
are deceived, but confident they will not perish and are usually comfortable
in the world.Many of todayís churches, in
America, are a type of social club. They have committees, lots of programs,
recreation areas, entertainment, paid singers, and comedians. There are many
things to lure a person in and to please the carnal nature and flesh. Soulwinning
is like a business. There are many types of crusades and "revivals";
however, few generate true conviction for sin, where people are driven to their
knees, confessing their sins, denying themselves, and crying out in brokenness
over their wickedness. Revivals, in this lukewarm generation,
seldom spark desire within one to be so hungry for Jesus that he turns off the
TV and sets aside other activities to spend hours a day studying Godís Word
and humbly seeking Him in prayer. And if one does come to Jesus, he may be quickly
"cooled off," as he is surrounded by his friends, relatives, local
churches, radio and television preachers, who may bring forth a lukewarm message
of compromise, deceit, and truth intermixed. The, perhaps, "one out of
a thousand preachers" that he might hear, who brings forth sound doctrine,
is often quickly discredited by everyone around him. Thus, lukewarm becomes
the accepted way of truth, and sound doctrine is viewed as the way of deceit
in the seventh and last church age. Whether it is the large cathedral, or the
small church with a grass roof, or the hidden house churchólukewarm is the church
of this generation. Many have pride in the fact that they have a new building,
or more people, or more children. Others have pride that they have gotten many
to say a sinnerís prayer, even though, afterwards, not one may have shown any
evidence of denying himself, taking up his CROSS DAILY, and following Jesus-ref
Lk 9:23.Todayís church
seems to think that more finances and things to attract the carnal nature will
convert the world. True conversion comes through the work of the Holy Spirit.
The Laodicean church is centered on "self" rather than on Jesus. It
lures with promises of miracles, healings, prosperity, good times, fellowship,
and friends.The Laodicean church seldom
tells people that if they decide to follow Jesus, the biblical way, they can
expect problems, persecutions, the loss of their friends, ridicule, false accusations,
their name dragged through the mud, and their families to forsake them. They
are not told that they may get very sick, enduring much pain and anguish. They
are not informed how Satan will tempt them, or that they could lose everything
they possess. They are unaware that many of the traditions that they are followingóof
their church, country, tribe, etc.óare an abomination to God. They are seldom
told, by any preacher, how blind and wretched this Laodicean church age is.Of the few, true Christians
that do exist, no matter what they go through, Jesus will be with them.Jesus described the Laodicean
church as lukewarm. The lukewarm are confident they are correct
and righteous. Their confidence is so deeply rooted that it is nearly impossible
to reach them with the truth. Lukewarmness comes from mixing both hot and cold.
They are not cold toward the things of God, but neither are they hot. They are
content, apathetic, indifferent. They are not truly concerned with what is right
and wrong or what is good and evil. Within the Laodicean church is the prevailing
attitude of "live and let live; donít rock the boat; donít cause waves;
it will all turn out O.K." They are taking a neutral position. They are
trying to serve God, but are also trying to please men. They are serving two
masters and justify their position. They are serving God, and they are serving
"self." They are serving God, and they are serving the world. This
is totally unacceptable with God. Remember, the name "Laodicea" means
"the rights of the people." Their knowledge and understanding of God,
His Word, and of these things is, at best, only lukewarm. Their obedience, love,
fruits of the Spirit, and works are, at best, only lukewarm. Their daily conversation
may be centered on both the things of the world and the things of God. They
are like a wave. They are carnal and have not denied themselves. They are not
fully following Jesus, though they are usually sure they are. Jesus is in their
life, but He is not the center of their life. Their life revolves around things
of the world and worldly circumstances; Jesus is only a part. They have need
of milk (basic doctrines) and not meat (perfection). They are not ready for
the doctrine of perfection and holiness. Their thoughts are divided between
Jesus and the things of the world. Laodiceans want to maintain a level of control
over their lives; they will trust Jesus only to a point. They do not have the
understanding that Jesus is in control when very difficult situations come against
them; their knowledge is lukewarm.At best, their understanding
of who is saved, by the grace of God, and who is not saved is only lukewarm.
It may be said, they do not fully comprehend the strait gate and narrow way.Their teaching may consist
of some sound doctrine mixed with confusion, false doctrine, deceit, doctrines
of men and denominations, new fads, or other distortions of Scripture that come
along.They may have a great church
complex, a magnificent choir, large attendance, much money coming in, a vast
radio and television ministry, an extensive mailing list reaching multitudes
with a monthly magazine, and many letters and telephone calls coming in. They
may be claiming to have won many souls, but if the message being proclaimed
is only lukewarm, then that is all they are.The following should be considered.
Sound doctrine is disappearing; most people will not tolerate it. One might
ask, "What would happen if sound doctrine was being taught?" The answer
is found in the Scriptures. In the days of the apostles, sound doctrine was
being taught in Laodicea; however, it was rejected. The Laodicean church was
only lukewarm; this is unacceptable to God.For those who may wonder if
lukewarm is really so bad, Jesus gives the following warning.

8-WARNING

1. I WILL SPEW (or spit)THEE OUT OF MY MOUTH.
The entire Laodicean church will be spit out and perish. There will be such
a small number from this church that will repent, not even the word "few"
is used as it was in the "dead" church of Sardis. The lukewarm will
not be taken when the Rapture comes.

9-BAD
THINGS(continued)

3:17.3. BECAUSE THOU SAYEST
(or because you say),I AM RICH.
Laodicea was prosperous, and the church had taken the same attitude. This church
considered itself rich and increased with goods. Indeed, throughout much of
the world today, there are large, beautiful church buildings. Even in poorer
countries that do not have these nice facilities, many believe the success of
their ministry depends upon getting financial help from abroad, rather than
trusting in Jesus and waiting upon Him. Jesus is showing the focus of this church
and what they are saying is wrong.4. The church also is saying,
I AMÖINCREASED WITH GOODS (or I have acquired wealth). So much emphasis
is placed upon prosperity.5. AND HAVE NEED OF NOTHING.
They are centered on "self." They are satisfied. They are content.Laodicea is a proud church
that sees itself as a good and spiritually sound institution with no needs.
In many countries, the Laodicean churches seemingly prosper in their organization,
in material assets, in university degrees, in attendance, in offerings, in paid
staff, and in volunteer workers. Never in church history has there been so many
Bible schools and universities. Never has the church owned so much property;
spent so much money; had so many books, programs, guest speakers, radio and
television ministries; broadcasted on short-wave radio around the entire world;
had so much material wealth, yet been so spiritually bankrupt. In Rev 3:20,
the Lord Jesus Christ, Himself, stands outside knocking at the door.This is todayís church,
the most deceived of all seven. It is filled with all sorts of half truths and
distorted doctrines. It sees itself totally different than what it really is.
It is so blind and deceived, it does not even understand that these passages,
in Rev 3:14-22, are written directly to them. These passages are for all of
us, right now.6. AND KNOWEST NOT THAT
THOU ART (or you do not realize) (or you donít know that you are the one
who is-JNT121). Jesus is showing this church believes what they are
saying, yet there are things they do not know. Jesus is showing that they are
not in the light as they think they are, but are in darkness, unable to see
their true condition. This church is portrayed as having a terminal illness,
yet are unaware of it. They do not understand they are going to die and perish.
They are completely deceived. Jesus continues by revealing what the true condition
of this church is. It is,7. WRETCHED8. AND MISERABLE
(or pitiful)9. AND POOR10. AND BLIND11. AND NAKEDJesus is showing that this
is the worst church, yet they are the most confident. The condition of this
church is a reflection of the Bible schools, and what is being
preached from the pulpits, and what is being taught by the missionaries,
and what is in the peopleís hearts.They are "wretched,"
but they do not know it. Being wretched comes from no faith, lukewarm faith,
or faith like a wave. It comes from a lack of truth and understanding. It comes
from being taught a form of the milk of Godís Word, which is so diluted by other
things mixed in with it, that people are no longer standing upon the Rock of
truth. People are standing upon truth and deceit mixed together. This is a church
that hears lukewarm preaching and comes away empty and unfulfilled, yet is in
such darkness that it is content; it does not even know it is wretched. This
word appears only one other time in the New Testament. It is in Ro 7:24, where
Paul describes himself, by saying, "O WRETCHED MAN THAT I AM." Unlike
Paul, the Laodicean church cannot recognize its condition.They are "miserable"
(or pitiful), but do not know it. This is the result of being wretchedóthey
are tossed about with all kinds of doctrines that come in like the wind from
all directions. The truth has been set aside to please peopleís flesh. The popularity
or charisma of the preacher often replaces the appeal of Jesus, which is the
Word of God.They are "poor,"
but do not know it. They are poor in wisdom, in knowledge, in faith, and in
understanding the Word of God. They are not zealous for the truth.They are "blind,"
but they do not know it. They are blind regarding Godís Word, in salvation,
in repentance, in discerning fruit, in who is saved, in understanding what Satan
is doing, and in recognizing the falling away that is happening and has already
happened. Many preach revival is coming, which is just the opposite of falling.
Their guard against the schemes of the devil is down, when it should be up.
They think they can stamp Satan under their feet, when, in reality, Satan is
stamping them under his feet, and they do not know it. They are trying to see
the great moves of God and are not understanding the moves of the adversary.
They call deceit, truth and truth, deceit. In these things they are blind, which
means they do not see or understand these things. Yet they are positive their
condition is rich and increased with goodsóthey think they need nothing. Many
preachers also think they are rich in knowledge, as they proudly display their
college degrees on the wall of their office and have shelves filled with hundreds
of books "about" the Bible. Their large church, or the many churches
that are under their control, or their vast ministry seems to testify that they
are spiritually in the light. Yet Godís Word said that this church is blind.
They teach the gifts of the Spirit, but do not teach or demonstrate the fruits
of the Spirit. Godís Word teaches water baptism by full immersion (ref Ro 6:4;
Col 2:12), and Jesusí disciples spent much time baptizing people; yet some of
todayís churches teach against water baptism. Others argue that sprinkling baptism
is the right way, and some baptize in the name of Jesus only. However, Jesus
taught, clearly, BAPTIZING THEM IN THE NAME OF THE FATHER, AND OF THE SON, AND
OF THE HOLY GHOST: TEACHING THEM TO OBSERVE (or obey) ALL THINGS WHATSOEVER
I HAVE COMMANDED YOU-Mt 28:19,20. Many do not even teach that we are to obey
Godís Word and keep His commandments. They teach about the love of God, but
do not teach that the evidence of a personís love for God is demonstrated by,
IF YE LOVE "ME," KEEP MY COMMANDMENTS-Jn 14:15.They are "naked"
and do not know it. Nakedness reveals a personís condition. They are exposed.
They have no clothing on. Their condition is shameful. They think they are covered
by grace but are not. Spiritual nakedness denotes no covering. It illustrates
that they are not covered with Godís Word, with wisdom, knowledge, and understanding.
They are not covered with the blood of Jesus by true faith that is evidenced
by what they do. As it is written, FAITH WITHOUT WORKS (or actions) IS DEAD-Ja
2:20. Their covering is deceit. They know not that they are naked and walking
in lukewarmness. They know not that they shall perish.This church may think highly
of itself, but its wretched condition is naked before God.

10-ADVICE
ON WHAT TO DO

3:18. I COUNSEL THEE
(or My advice to you is-JNT122)1. TO BUY OF ME GOLD TRIED
(or refined)IN THE FIRE.
The Laodicean church has gold, but it is the wrong kind. The purchase of the
gold must come from Jesus. This is not regular gold but refined gold (Jesus,
the Word of God). This is the righteousness that comes from faith.2. AND ANOINT (or rub)THINE EYES WITH EYESALVE.
Because this church is spiritually blind, they are being admonished to use eyesalve,
so their blindness might be cured. They do not have correct spiritual discernment.
Their understanding of their condition is opposite of the truth. This would
indicate that Satanís deceptions in this church are great, which explains why
Jesus said, TAKE HEED THAT NO MAN DECEIVE YOU-Mt 24:4. This church did not love
truth.

3:19.3. BE ZEALOUS (or be
earnest) (or exert yourselves-JNT123)THEREFORE,4. AND REPENT (or turn
from your sins).The message is clear to this
church. First, believe all of Godís Word. Believe what He is saying to this
church. Then follow what Jesus said to do. Obey the Gospel. Put on eyesalve
that you may see and understand. Be zealous and repent.

11-REASONS
TO FOLLOW GODíS ADVICE

3:18.1. THAT THOU MAYEST BE RICH.
The richness here is not earthly wealth, but is the richness that comes from
faith. Through faith we overcome and inherit all things. The second church,
Smyrna, had much poverty in the world, but they were RICH-Rev 2:9. The Laodicean
church has worldly riches but lukewarm faith. It is written, WHEN THE SON OF
MAN COMETH, SHALL HE FIND FAITH ON THE EARTH?-Lk 18:8.2. AND WHITE RAIMENT
(or white clothes to wear). The white raiment is the righteousness of the saints,
which is received through faith in Jesus Christ. The Laodicean church is not
clothed with white raiment. Any clothing other than this white raiment, only
results in nakedness.3. THAT THOU MAYEST BE CLOTHED
(or may be dressed).4. AND THAT THE SHAME OF
THY NAKEDNESS DO NOT APPEAR (or so you can cover your shameful nakedness-NIV).
This church is naked; it has no clothing on. It is clothed with deceit, which
is no clothing at all. The nakedness of this church is clear only to a few in
this generation. It is shameful.5. THAT THOU MAYEST SEE
(or so you can see). Only through anointing the eyes with eyesalve, can one
hope to see and understand oneís condition. The Bible says to examine ourselves.
This is done by denying ourselves and humbly and honestly looking at ourselves
in light of "all" of Godís Word.

3:19.6. AS MANY AS I LOVE
(or those whom I love),I REBUKE ANDCHASTEN (or discipline). Because of Jesusí love, He will rebuke and chasten
that we might not perish. Thus, we are admonished to "be zealous therefore
and repent."If a lukewarm Christian will
not obey Godís warning, he is without hope. He shall not be taken in the Rapture.
He shall perish. Only a few will heed Godís warning, for the prophecy must be
fulfilled.

12-WHAT
JESUS IS DOING

3:20. The invitation
that Jesus offers may apply to any person; however, here, it is an invitation
given to the Laodicean church and to the individual that believes on Jesus Christ
but is only lukewarm.1. BEHOLD, I STAND AT THE
DOOR. A church is an assembly of believers. Individuals make up the church.
Jesus is illustrating a very sad picture of the Laodicean church. He is standing
outside of "His" church, not inside. It is the peopleís church. Laodicea
means "human rights" or "the rights of the people." They
do not want to let Jesus (the Word) rule over them. They want to rule themselves.
This church is described, outwardly, as being prosperous and having many goods,
yet Jesus is on the outside, not on the inside.It is incredible that this
church is completely ignorant of its true condition. Thousands of churches are
on radio and television. They send out missionaries around the world. They preach
Jesus, but He is on the outside. They do not understand this. Multitudes write
books about the Bible and their own lifeís experiences with God, but Jesus is
still on the outside, knocking on the door, saying, "Let Me in." They
do not understand. As they will not let Jesus in, neither will He let them in
at the judgment.Churches sing and sing about
Jesus and worship Him. They are involved in all sorts of Christian service.
A person may ask, "How, then, can Jesus be on the outside of the church?"
The answer can be summed up in this wayóself and worldliness.Following Rev 3:22, there should
be a message from Godís Word to consider on this subject.2. AND KNOCK (or here,
Iím standing at the door, knocking-JNT124). Jesus is knocking on
the door of "His" church. The people inside are, undoubtedly, singing
about Jesus; they may even be worshiping and praying to Him. Nevertheless, Jesus
may not be in their hearts. Godís Word has not found a place in them to dwell
and grow.Yet Jesus continues to knock.
He knocks on the door of peopleís hearts, as if to say, "Let Me in."

1. IF
ANY MAN HEAR MY VOICE. Jesus is talking to the individual.
2. AND OPEN THE DOOR. To the individual that will
hear the voice of Jesus and open the door of his heart, Jesus promises,

13-PROMISES

1. IWILL COME IN TO HIM,
2. AND WILL SUP (or eat)WITH HIM,
3. AND HE (will)WITH ME.
The door cannot be opened by Jesus, but must be opened by the one that hears
His voice. He that hears and understands Godís Word must respond by opening
his heart to Jesus. To this person that responds, these promises are given.

14-REWARDS

3:21. TO HIM THAT
OVERCOMETH (or him who wins the victory-JNT125). We overcome
by walking in faith. To him that overcomes the lukewarmness, the "not knowing"
his true condition, the riches and needing nothing, and obeys the advice of
Jesus. The verse continues, to him that overcomes,1. WILL I GRANT (or
give the right)TO SIT WITH ME IN MY THRONE,
EVEN (or just)AS I ALSO OVERCAME, AND
AM SET DOWN WITH MY FATHER IN HIS THRONE.
Jesus is currently sitting at the right hand of God the Father. However, during
the Millennium, Jesus will sit upon His own throne. We are to overcome, even
as Jesus overcame; to those that do, the promise is given them to sit with Jesus
in His throne.

3:22.
HE THAT HATH AN EAR (or those who have ears),LET HIM HEAR WHAT THE SPIRIT
SAITH (or is saying)UNTO THE CHURCHES.

Note
the words of Rev 22:16:I JESUS HAVE SENT MINE ANGEL
TOTESTIFYUNTO YOUTHESE
THINGS IN THE CHURCHES.There are many lukewarm, blind
churches that will not teach these things in this Laodicean church age.

The
last church age would be neither hot or cold, but lukewarm.
The last church age would say they are rich.
The last church age would say they are increased with goods.
The last church age would say they have need of nothing.
The last church age would be wretched, miserable, poor, blind,
and naked.
The last church age would not know they are
wretched.
The last church age would not know they are
miserable.
The last church age would not know they are
poor.
The last church age would not know they are
blind.
The last church age would not know they are
naked.
The last church age would be asleep.
The last church age would abound with deception or false
teaching.
The last church age would have false prophets.
The last church age would not teach sound doctrine.
The last church age would teach what people want to hear.
The last church age will turn away from the truth.
The last church age would teach stories that are not in the
Bible.
The last church age, many preachers would not be following
God.
The last church age, many would not be warning about Jesus
returning to rapture His people.
The last church age, Godís ways and Word would be corrupted
throughout the earth.
The last church age would bring forth teachings of seducing
spirits and doctrines of devils.
Without any question, the condition of the church before
the Rapture reflects no revival. Instead, what is portrayed is a deceived church
that does not know or understand its true blind and wretched condition.

16-FALSE
CHRISTS AND FALSE PROPHETS BEFORE THE RAPTURE

Many will come
professing to be Christ.
The false Christs shall deceive many.
Many false prophets shall come.
The false prophets shall deceive many.
The false Christs and false prophets shall show great signs, wonders, and miracles.Without any question, these
Scriptures reflect no revival, but rather deception.

17-HOW
PEOPLEíS REACTION TO GODíS WORD WOULD BE BEFORE THE RAPTURE

People would be
ever learning but not able to understand the truth.
People would be willingly ignorant of the truth.
People would resist the truth.
These would be depraved, unprincipled, of corrupt minds.
People would not receive the love of the truth.
People would not endure sound doctrine.
People would turn away from Godís Word and follow things that are untrue.
People would forget that the world was destroyed by water.
People would gather around themselves teachers to say what they want to hear.Without any question, these
Scriptures reflect no revival. Instead, we see people resisting the truth, not
enduring sound doctrine, and gathering around themselves preachers and teachers
to say what they want to hear.

18-PEOPLE
WOULD BE LEAVING THE FAITH, FALLING AWAY

Some would forsake
the faith of Jesus Christ.
Some would fall away from the faith of Jesus Christ.
Some servants of God would begin to smite their fellow servants.
Some servants of God would begin to eat and drink with the drunken.Without any question, these
Scriptures reflect no revival. Rather they reflect the opposite of revivalóthat
of falling away from Godís Word. What is the opposite of falling away? It is
revival. Could it be that Satan is concealing the truth of falling away with
the lie of revival? Is it possible he has been so skillful at doing this that
even some of the most respected Bible teachers have been deceived in this matter?

19-FALSE
FORMS OF WORSHIP

Some that follow Jesus
would turn and follow devils.
Some would worship devils.
Some would worship the work of their hands.
Some would worship idols of gold.
Some would worship idols of silver.
Some would worship idols of brass.
Some would worship idols of stone.
Some would worship idols of wood.Without any question, these
Scriptures reflect no revival, but rather people being greatly deceived.

20-SPEAKING
AGAINST GOD

Ungodly sinners
would speak against God.Definitely no revival indicated
here.

21-SIN
AND EVIL, HOW THE PEOPLE WOULD BE

People would be
ungodly and doing ungodly deeds.
People would be unholy.
Women would be laden with sins.
The world would be increasingly evil.
Sin shall abound and increase.
The wickedness of the people would be great.
The transgressors or peopleís wickedness would come to the full.Without any question, these
Scriptures reflect no revival. These show people becoming more and more sinful.
All one has to do is compare how people were 40 years ago with how they are
today, and these Scriptures are proven to be very true.

22-HOW
THE PEOPLE WOULD BE OVERALL

People would not
love God as much as pleasures.
People would have an outer form of godliness but denying Jesus.
People would be scoffers or mockers regarding the return of Jesus.
People would be questioning the promise of the coming of Jesus Christ.
Some of Godís people would say, "My Lord delayeth His coming."
Very few people would be following Godís ways and be saved.Without any question, there
is no evidence of revival here.

23-HOW
THE CLERGY WOULD BE

Clergy would be
lying.
Clergy would be committing adultery.
Clergy would be strengthening those who do evil, so that they do not repent.
Clergy would be saying, "I have dreamed."
Clergy would try to cause Godís people to forget His name.
Clergy would steal or repeat each otherís words.Without any question, these
Scriptures reflect no revival. Rather they portray the clergy becoming more
and more deceived, more and more sinful.

24-PERTAINING
TO KNOWING THE TIMES

The wicked shall
not understand the latter days or time of the end.
Those that do not watch will not understand the time of the end.
Many will not understand in their heart that the coming of Jesus is very close.Without any question, these
Scriptures reflect no revival. They reflect a people that do not understand
that the coming of the Lord is very near.

25-WHAT
THE PEOPLE WOULD BE LIKE WITHIN THEMSELVES

People would have
no conscience of doing wrong.
People would love themselves.
People would be covetous and lovers of money.
People would be proud.
People would despise those that do good.
People would be conceited.
People would love pleasures.
People would have pleasure in doing evil.
Women would be weak-willed in resisting sin (including sex).
Women would be involved in all kinds of evil lusts and desires.
People would be walking after their own lusts.
People would be very worldly and controlled by their natural instincts and impulses.
Many peopleís love would grow colder and colder.
Peopleís imaginations and thoughts would be evil continually.Without any question, these
Scriptures reflect no revival. They reflect a world that is getting further
and further away from the truth of Godís Word.

26-WHAT
PEOPLE WOULD BE LIKE TOWARD OTHERS: PEOPLEíS PERSONALITIES

People would be
hypocritical liars.
People would be very boastful.
People would falsely accuse one another.
People would be insulting and abusive.
People would be disobedient to their parents.
People would be unthankful and ungrateful.
People would be trucebreakers.
People would be arrogant.
People would be savage, violent, and cruel.
People would be traitors.
People would be rash, impetuous, reckless, and doing things with little thought.
People would be murmuring and grumbling.
People would be complaining and finding fault with others.
People would use flattery to gain an advantage.
People would kill the just, even when they do not resist.
People would be committing murders.
People would be stealing.
People would try to cause divisions between the saints.
People would betray one another.
People would hate each other.Without any question, these
Scriptures reflect no revival. They reflect a world that is turning away from
God and His Word.

27-PEOPLE
WOULD BE FOLLOWING THESE SINFUL LIFESTYLES

People would be
homosexuals and lesbians.
Many would have sex outside of marriage.
People would be going after their own lusts.
People would follow perversion.
People would commit abominations.Without any question, these
Scriptures also reflect no revival. Rather they reflect a very deceived and
perverted society.

28-PEOPLE
WOULD BE GOING ABOUT BUSINESS AS USUAL,
AS IF NOTHING WAS ABOUT TO HAPPEN

People would be getting
married, as if nothing was going to happen.
People would still be giving away their offspring to be married.
People would still be eating, as if nothing was going to happen.
People would still be getting drunk.
People would be buying things, as if nothing was going to happen.
People would be selling things, as if nothing was going to happen.
People would be planting, as if nothing was going to happen.
People would be building, as if nothing was going to happen.
Without any question, these Scriptures reflect no revival.
Rather they reflect people oblivious to the fact that Jesus will soon come to
rapture the few people that are still following Him.

29-OTHER
ITEMS ABOUT THE PEOPLE

People would be
overindulging.
People would have an abundance.
People would have lots of idle time.
People would be taking drugs.
Men would enter the houses of women to seduce them.
People would be laying up wealth.
People would be laying up gold and silver.
People would be running to and fro (or going here and there).
Employers would be holding back the wages of workers.
The employers would hold back the wages by fraud.
Those cheating the laborers would be living in pleasure and leading a life of
self-indulgence.
People would have filthy conversation.
People would be doing things that are wrong or unlawful.
People would be as those of Sodom and Gomorrah.
People would not be hiding their sin.Without any question, these
Scriptures also reflect no revival. These picture people becoming more and more
sinful. These picture people that are so corrupt that they do not even hide
their sin. These reveal that people have no understanding of right and wrong
according to Godís Word.

30-PEOPLE
WOULD NOT BE DOING THIS

People would not
be repenting in great numbers just before the Rapture.
Many would not help the poor and needy.Without any question, these
Scriptures also reflect there will be no revival.

31-HOW
THE WORLD WOULD BE REGARDING EVIL

The earth would
be corrupt.|The earth would be filled with violence.
The earth would have more and more totally uninhibited, senseless, violent,
unreasonable people committing unspeakable acts.
Witchcraft, in various forms, would increase throughout the earthWithout any question, these
Scriptures also reflect there will be no great revival. There will be no great
true repentance prior to the Rapture.

From
India to America, from America to Africa the voices ring out that revival is
coming. From short wave radio, to the mud brick churches in third-world countries,
to Christian television broadcasting, preachers are proclaiming, "Revival
is coming." Several questions need to be asked:Is a great revival going to
come before the Rapture or not?Is the statement that a great
revival is coming before the Rapture based on Scripture, hope, or falsehood?Has Satan deceived people regarding
a great revival coming before the Rapture in order to hide a message that God
has for His people? Read onóyou might get a surprise. CLICK HERE
FORóIS
REVIVAL COMING?

32-PEOPLE
FALLING AWAY FROM TRUE TRUST IN JESUS CHRIST:
PEOPLE FALLING AWAY FROM THE TRUTH

People would fall away from the faith of Jesus Christ. Prophecy fulfilled-beginning
around the 1960's or before and getting worse and worse to this current time.It is written,
EXCEPT THERE COME A FALLING AWAY (or apostasy) FIRST-2 Thes 2:3.
It is also written, AS THE DAYS OF NOAH WERE, SO SHALL ALSO THE COMING OF THE
SON OF MAN BE-Mt 24:37. In Noahís day, they also fell away. It is written, ALL
FLESH HAD CORRUPTED HIS WAY UPON THE EARTH-Gen 6:12. There was no great
revival in the days of Noah. It is also as in the days of Lot. It is
written, LIKEWISE ALSO AS IT WAS IN THE DAYS OF LOTÖEVEN THUS SHALL IT BE IN
THE DAY WHEN THE SON OF MAN IS REVEALED-Lk 17:28,30. There was no great
revival in the days of Lot. Rather, the people were corrupt and were
not following Godís ways. They did not repent.Many in this last generation
have become a part of the apostasy. Many people have already fallen. It becomes
so very clear when knocking on peopleís doors to witness. Multitudes tell how
they once were following Jesus, but they no longer are. Satan has very cleverly
clouded the minds of many born-again people and clergy, so that the falling
away that has already happened is not recognized by very many. The apostasy
(the falling away from Jesus) will continue to get worse and worse until that
day comes when the trumpet shall blow. Then the very few saints,
who have remained faithful, shall be raptured. It will be as Noahís day was.
Few were saved and escaped the flood. It will be as Lotís day was. Few were
saved and escaped the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah. This prophecy is fulfilled.The Scripture clearly shows
this is the age of deception and falling. What would be
the opposite of falling? The answer is revival. If Satan
would desire to hide the fact that many are falling, then the opposite can be
expected to be taught. Thus, the falling away is seldom taught.
In its place, the deception of a revival before the Rapture is taught.
Thus, the people are looking for revival and are not on their guard against
the schemes of the devil.Many well-known, highly esteemed
evangelists and ministers are teaching this deception. "Revival coming"
is what multitudes of itching ears want to hear, even though it
is not true.The next worldwide revival
will be during the Tribulation;
however, many will not get saved, as they have no knowledge of these things.
Those that do get saved, during that horrible time, can expect to flee for their
lives. They can expect to be betrayed by people they trust, ridiculed, beaten,
tortured, and beheaded for their faith in Jesus. They will be pressured to take
the mark of the beast (or Antichrist) and worship the image of the beast (or
Antichrist). Many can be expected to buckle under these pressures and turn away
from Jesus to spare their own lives. But he that saves his life in this world,
by turning from Jesus, shall lose his life for eternity.

Rev 3:14. AND UNTO THE
ANGEL OF THE CHURCH OF THE LAODICEANS WRITE; THESE THINGS SAITH (or are the
words of) THE AMEN, THE FAITHFUL AND TRUE WITNESS, THE BEGINNING OF THE CREATION
OF GOD. Ref Col 1:16; Mk 13:19; Eph 3:9. 3:15.
I KNOW THY WORKS (or deeds), THAT THOU ART NEITHER COLD NOR HOT: I WOULD THOU
WERT COLD OR HOT (I wish you were either one or the other!-NIV). 3:16.
SO THEN BECAUSE THOU ART LUKEWARM, AND NEITHER COLD NOR HOT, I WILL SPEW (or
spit) THEE OUT OF MY MOUTH. Ref Mt 25:5; Jere 3:10. 3:17.
BECAUSE THOU SAYEST (or because you say), I AM RICH, AND INCREASED WITH GOODS
(or I have acquired wealth-NIV), AND HAVE NEED OF NOTHING; AND KNOWEST NOT THAT
THOU ART (or you do not realize) (or you donít know that you are the one who
is-JNT121) WRETCHED, AND MISER-ABLE (or pitiful), AND POOR, AND BLIND,
AND NAKED. Ref Pv 24:12; 2 Thes 2:3; Jere 23:1,2,16-38; 1 Tim 6:3-5; Mk 7:6-9,13;
Ezek 34:1-12. 3:18.
I COUNSEL THEE (or My advice to you is-JNT122) TO BUY OF ME GOLD
TRIED (or refined) IN THE FIRE, THAT THOU MAYEST BE RICH; AND WHITE RAIMENT
(or white clothes to wear), THAT THOU MAYEST BE CLOTHED (or may be dressed),
AND THAT THE SHAME OF THY NAKEDNESS DO NOT APPEAR (or so you can cover your
shameful nakedness-NIV); AND ANOINT (or rub) THINE EYES WITH EYESALVE, THAT
THOU MAYEST SEE (or so you can see). Ref Rev 2:9; Mt 25:9-buy; Gen 3:10,11;
2 Cor 5:3; Rev 16:15; 21:7; Mt 24:4. 3:19.
AS MANY AS I LOVE (or those whom I love), I REBUKE (or reprove) AND CHASTEN
(or discipline): BE ZEALOUS (or be earnest) (or exert yourselves-JNT123)
THEREFORE, AND REPENT (or turn from your sins). Ref Rev 1:5; 3:9-love.3:20.
BEHOLD, I STAND AT THE DOOR, AND KNOCK (or here, Iím standing at the door, knocking-JNT124):
IF ANY MAN HEAR MY VOICE, AND OPEN THE DOOR, I WILL COME IN TO HIM, AND WILL
SUP (or eat) WITH HIM, AND HE (will) WITH ME. 3:21.
TO HIM THAT OVERCOMETH (or him who wins the victory-JNT125) WILL
I GRANT (or give the right) TO SIT WITH ME IN MY THRONE, EVEN (or just) AS I
ALSO OVERCAME, AND AM SET DOWN WITH MY FATHER IN HIS THRONE. Ref Lk 13:25; Rev
21:7. 3:22.
HE THAT HATH AN EAR (or those who have ears), LET HIM HEAR WHAT THE SPIRIT SAITH
(or is saying) UNTO THE CHURCHES. Ref Rev 22:16. Mt 24:4.
AND JESUS ANSWERED AND SAID UNTO THEM, TAKE HEED (or watch out) THAT NO MAN
DECEIVE YOU.Mk 13:5.
AND JESUS ANSWERING THEM BEGAN TO SAY, TAKE HEED (or watch out) LEST ANY MAN
DECEIVE YOU:Lk 21:8.
AND HE SAID, TAKE HEED (or watch out) THAT YE BE NOT DECEIVED.